Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis

A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.

It is possible to develop osteoarthritis (OA) with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing OA. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

The risk of OA increases with age, especially in those over 50 years old. OA is more common in women than in men, but it affects men at an earlier age.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Osteoarthritis.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Osteoarthritis/default.asp. Updated August 2013. Accessed December 1, 2014.